The Setting of The Great Gatsby in 1920s New York: A Review

The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a literary masterpiece that vividly portrays the roaring 1920s in America. This period, often referred to as the Jazz Age, was marked by excess, extravagance, and social decadence. The story sets the stage in Long Island, just outside New York City, with its two distinct yet comparable enclaves: East Egg and West Egg.

1920s New York: The Jazz Age

The 1920s, also known as the 'Jazz Age,' was a time of cultural and social transformation in America. This period was characterized by a boom in economic prosperity, which allowed for increased leisure and consumerism. Jazz music flourished, and people across the country indulged in parties, drinking, and revelry. New York City was at the heart of this cultural movement, with its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.

According to F. Scott Fitzgerald, in the novel, the 1920s in New York City were defined by a focus on money, parties, and sex. This assertion is grounded in the narrative where characters like Daisy and Tom Buchanan, who reside in the exclusive neighborhood of East Egg, prioritize their wealth and social status above all else. The setting of the novel reflects the social stratification and moral decay of the time, capturing the evident superficiality and materialism of the upper class.

East Egg and West Egg: A Tale of Two Estates

The story unfolds in two parallel affluent enclaves of Long Island: East Egg and West Egg. These two areas represent the different strata of wealth and social class in the 1920s.

East Egg is described as the home of the Old Money, wealthy families whose wealth has been passed down through generations. These residents, like Tom and Daisy Buchanan, embody the pretension and wastefulness of the old guard. They live in palatial homes and indulge in extravagant parties and superficial relationships. East Egg's population is marked by a sense of superiority and a refusal to change or accept new values.

West Egg is home to the new-rich, the nouveau riche, like Jay Gatsby. These individuals, though not as old or established, have amassed their wealth through hard work and innovation. Gatsby's house, which stands on the edge of West Egg, represents his pursuit of the American dream and his desire to gain acceptance into the elite social circle of East Egg. However, despite his opulence, Gatsby remains an outsider, his success not genuine enough to win him the respect of the Old Money crowd.

The Truth Behind the Boastful Dreams

While the extravagant lifestyle of Long Island's elite is portrayed, the novel delves into the underlying rot and emptiness beneath the surface. Nick Carraway, the narrator, lives between these two worlds and observes the stark contrasts and moral decay. He acts as the voice of reason, distinguishing the hollow nature of the wealthy characters' lives.

Quoted from the beginning of the book, Fitzgerald states that the location is likely Great Neck and Manhasset Bay/Port Washington. A New York Times article titled Eyeing the Unreal Estate of Gatsby Esq. provides further insight into the real estate and social setting of the 1920s in Long Island. This blend of fiction and historical context enriches the portrayal of the 1920s and deepens the reader's understanding of the societal values and dynamics of the era.

Through The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald offers a poignant critique of the 1920s cultural landscape. The settings of East Egg and West Egg serve as vivid mirrors reflecting the societal issues and moral dilemmas of the time. As readers, we are invited to scrutinize the facade of wealth and extravagance, uncovering the underlying truths about human nature and the pursuit of happiness.

Conclusion

The Great Gatsby remains a timeless piece of literature, offering a profound exploration of the American dream and the consequences of its pursuit. Through its intricate portrayal of 1920s New York, the novel continues to resonate with readers around the world, serving as a cautionary tale that speaks to the enduring human spirit and the eternal quest for meaning and fulfillment.